Top 3 Reported Cyber Attacks in 2024: What Businesses Need to Know
While the era of digitalization has brought ease and convenience to our lives, it has also introduced significant dangers and potential risks to our privacy. Whether we talk about an individual or a developed business it has become a basic necessity to both of them to create online presence. As the internet have evolved around, protecting your digital presence and assets has also become significantly difficult. Although the new internet era (Web 3.0) involves block chain technology, we all know that modern innovations come with modern vulnerabilities.
Pervious cyber-attack reports are the concurrent evidence that it doesn't how safe and secure you play, you are still always at the edge of danger with such cyber-attacks. This Post has compiled 3 reported cyber-attacks in 2024 that you should be aware of for keeping your business safe and sound. Keeping your self-informed with updated Cyber reports can help in taking suitable security measures against such cyber attacks.
Top 3 Reported Cyber Attacks in 2024
This Attack took place on (11-March-2024) by a hacker identified as Anonymous Sudan. The hacker targeted French State Services by a cyber-attack described as a breach of "unprecedented intensity". The attack impacted over 300 web domains and 177,000 IP addresses associated with the French government, causing severe disruptions to public service websites. This was a denial-of-service (DDoS) assault, in which hacker flooded the system with excessive data, making websites inaccessible.
To execute the DDoS attack, the hacker utilized a botnet. Botnet refers a network of compromised computers or devices under their control. These devices can be anything from personal computers to Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which are often poorly secured and thus easier to hijack.
The hacker used DNS amplification method, where he sent small queries to open DNS servers, which then send much larger responses to the target. This significantly magnifies the amount of traffic hitting the target servers. The botnet generated a massive volume of traffic directed at the targeted IP addresses and web domains.
Change Healthcare Ransom ware Attack took place on (21-February-2024) and identified Russia-based ransom ware group ALPHV/Black Cat responsible. The attackers gained initial access through phishing emails, exploiting vulnerabilities in the system, or using stolen credentials.
Once within the network, the attackers gained a footing by distributing tools for retaining access. The attackers used reconnaissance to map the network, identifying vital systems, data repositories, and backup servers. The attackers employed ways to elevate their privileges and acquire administrative access. The attackers used administrative access to travel laterally throughout the network, spreading the ransom ware to as many devices as possible. Prior to encrypting the data. The malware sent a ransom letter on affected PCs. Following the payment, the attackers delivered a decryption key, allowing access to the encrypted data. Investigations are currently underway to assess the full scope of the data breach and the efficacy of Change Healthcare's cybersecurity measures.
The hack on the UK Ministry of Defense’s payroll system in May 2024 was a sophisticated cyber-attack that exposed sensitive personal data of nearly 270,000 current and former staff members. The attackers initiated the breach by exploiting vulnerabilities within the SSCL (Shared Services Connected Ltd), the private contractor responsible for managing the payroll system. Targeted emails were sent to employees of SSCL, tricking them into providing login credentials or clicking on malicious links that install malware. To avoid immediate detection, the attackers used techniques to cover their tracks by deleting logs, using encryption, and creating backdoors to facilitate future access. The UK government took rapid measures to shut down the hacked network and began providing assistance to anyone impacted. While the government did not publicly identify the country responsible, reports and information pointed to China's participation.
How Business Can be Safe against Such Cyber Attacks?
Implement Multi-Layered Security
Utilizing a combination of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and anti-malware tools can protect against such cyber threats reported in 2024. Regularly update and patch software to fix vulnerabilities. This multi-layered approach allows strong defense against these attacks.
Conduct Regular Training
Provide training to employees about recognizing phishing attempts and other social engineering attacks. Keep your staff informed about the latest threats by Awareness programs. An educated workforce is significant factor in preventing security breaches.
Employ Strong Access Controls
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all valued and critical systems. Implement least privileges by allowing employees have limited access. Strong access controls limit the risk of unauthorized access.
Monitor and Respond
Continuously monitor network traffic for unusual activity. Have an incident response plan to immediately address and mitigate breaches. Active monitoring and a prepared response strategy are essential for effective cybersecurity.
Backup Data Regularly
Regularly back up valued data and store it in a secure, offsite location. Test backups to make sure quick recovery in case of a ransom ware attack.
To Wrap Up
Staying updated about current cyber-attacks and understanding their methods is critical for firms looking to secure their digital assets. Implementing strong cybersecurity measures and creating a security culture may considerably lower the probability of falling victim to such cyber-attacks.
Have you ever experienced a cyber-attack at your workplace? How was it handled?
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